Oral Care for Seniors

As we all grow older, certain health concerns earn our full attention, but we should never forget about the health of our teeth. When it comes down to numbers, according to the Washington Dental Service Foundation (WDSF), around 75 percent of adults 60 and older only have a portion of their original teeth. You only get one set of permanent teeth and Dr. Fredrick Shaw is here to help you take care of them for as long as possible.

Advancing age puts many seniors at risk for a number of oral health problems, such as darkened teeth, dry mouth, root decay, gum disease, tooth loss and even a diminished sense of taste. If teeth are lost over the years and not replaced, an uneven jawbone can develop and this allows the rest of the teeth to drift and shift into open spaces, causing the skin to sag more than it should. At Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, we want to assist our senior patients in avoiding these problems by providing the best care possible.

If you or a relative are due for a dental checkup, please give us a call. To learn more about Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, call us at 512-451-7491 or visit our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

Thank You For Your Testimonials!

Here at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, our staff appreciates feedback from our patients because it teaches us how to improve as a team. Our staff would not only like to thank Melinda for this five-star review, but we would like to thank her for being an excellent patient. If you recently experienced exceptional service from our office, please let us know!  

“I fell on Thanksgiving and did a lot of damage to my teeth. I have been very nervous about the recovery process and everything involved, but from the moment I walked in the door, everyone here (the doctor and all his staff) has been friendly, genuine, and more than helpful! They are good about explaining everything to you and maintaining communication about the entire process. They have completely put me at ease. I would recommend them to anyone!” –Melinda

If you would like to leave a testimonial or are interested in learning more about the services we provide at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic group, visit www.fredrickshawdds.com. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Fredrick Shaw in Austin, TX, call 512-451-7491.

Full Mouth Reconstruction

In cases where there is severe decay or trauma, there needs to be a full mouth reconstruction. This is a process where all or most of a patient’s teeth need to be restored. At Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, we can perform a full mouth reconstruction to get patients back to optimal oral health and overall health.

Full mouth reconstruction may consist of repairing teeth, gums, and the jaw. X-rays and pictures will be taken of your smile to help us accurately diagnose you. We will then create a unique plan for you.

To restore teeth, we may want to implement crowns, bridges, inlays or onlays, implants, dentures, or porcelain veneers. We can also perform bone grafting for those who need restored bone tissue before implants. For restoring gums, we are able to implement gum disease treatment. We can also perform gum grafts.

When you restore the health and function of your mouth, you will find that your overall health will improve, as well. If you are in need of major dental work, be sure to set up an appointment with Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group. To reach our Austin, TX office, you can call us at (512) 451-7491 or visit our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

Bone Grafting Options

When the parts of the jawbone are not large enough, it may keep implants from being an option. Because implants need a good amount of bone to successfully be inserted, at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, we are able to perform bone grafting. This helps patients who desire implants but first need a more built-up jawbone.

Bone grafting is the process of taking bone from another area of the mouth or body and placed in the area where the jawbone needs to be repaired. Some cases may use bone material from a bone bank; a very safe source. After the area is opened up and packed with the bone graft material, the area is allowed to heal for a few months before implants will be installed. During these months, the newly placed bone will heal and it will cause further regeneration of new bone. The end result will be a strong jawbone able to hold an implant for a lifetime.

Sinus augmentations and ridge expansions are very common bone grafts needed for dental implant placement. Some patients need their jawbone repaired because of degeneration after a lost tooth or some need it because they have low sinuses or naturally smaller jawbones.

If dental implants are your perfection option, talk to us about the implant process and bone grafting. To learn more, visit our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. To set up an appointment in our Austin, TX office, call Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group at (512) 451-7491. 

Dental Implant Failure

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. In fact, they are one of the most reliable long-term methods of tooth replacement. However, as with any other surgical procedure, there are a variety of internal and external factors that cause complications or even total failure of treatment. If this ever were to happen to you, Dr. Fredrick Shaw is here to assess the situation.

Osseointegration describes the formation of a direct functional and structural connection between a person’s bone and an artificial implant. There are two primary reasons for “later” implant failure after the osseointegration process has been successful. These include over-stressing implants with too much biting force or inflammatory disease of the gum tissues and/or bone around the implant. Prevention plays a tremendous role in avoiding implant failure. Once the implants are placed, it’s crucial to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Make sure you schedule regular dental cleanings to help keep the tissues around your implants healthy.

If you have questions about dental implants, please give us a call. To learn more about Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, call us at 512-451-7491 or visit our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

Invest In a Tongue Cleaner

Bad breath can have a negative impact on a person’s life, relationships, and self-esteem. It can also be an underlying cause for more serious oral health issues, such as gum disease. Dr. Fredrick Shaw recommends scheduling professional cleanings and oral exams twice a year as a preventive measure against serious gum conditions, however, in addition to using a toothbrush to clean your teeth, you can improve your mouth’s freshness by using a tongue cleaner.

Do yourself a favor and step in front of a mirror. Do you spot a coated tongue? If you do, tongue scraping may be helpful. Tongue scrapers, which are available in most drugstores in various shapes and sizes, have been deemed a way to reduce or eliminate bad breath. To use it, all you need to do is place the tongue scraper at the back of your tongue and gently bring it forward along your tongue, repeating as often as needed. Although there’s no harm in trying a tongue scraper to treat bad breath, you should remember that it’s just as important to practice good dental hygiene overall. Brush your teeth and tongue at least twice a day, floss in between your teeth at least once a day, and rinse or gargle with mouthwash to help keep your breath fresh.

If you are due for a dental checkup, please give us a call. To learn more about Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, call us at 512-451-7491 or visit our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the destruction of your tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Hundreds of different types of bacteria live on our teeth, gums, tongue and other crevices in the mouth. Some are helpful, but some can be harmful such as those that play a role in the tooth decay process. At Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, we want our patients to know that good oral and dental hygiene can help you avoid cavities and tooth decay.

When a tooth is exposed to acid frequently – for example, if you frequently eat foods or drinks containing sugar and starches – the repeated cycles of acid attacks cause the enamel to continue to lose minerals. This will cause a white spot to appear if the minerals have been lost. When this happens, this is a sign of early decay.

You can help prevent tooth decay by following these tips:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.


• Clean between your teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner.


• Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking.


• Visit us at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group for professional cleanings and oral examination.

If you need assistance maintaining your oral hygiene routine, give us a call. To learn more about Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, call us at 512-451-7491 or visit our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

Bad Oral Habits

Tooth sensitivity – also known as dentin hypersensitivity – affects the tooth or exposed root surfaces. If you experience discomfort when eating hot or cold beverages, you may be a victim of this condition. Tooth sensitivity can come and go over time. Sometimes the solution to relief is simply breaking bad habits. If you catch yourself performing any of the following tasks, Dr. Fredrick Shaw of Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group suggests you do your best to break them.

• You’re brushing too hard – over time, if you brush with too much force, you can wear down the protective layers of your teeth and expose the microscopic hollow tubes or canals that lead to your dental nerves. When these tubules are exposed, tooth sensitivity is a result.


• You’re eating too many acidic foods – If the pathways to your nerves are exposed, acidic foods will cause you pain.


• You have tooth decay – If you have tooth decay, it’s easy for bacteria to accumulate in these tiny crevices, which causes acid build-up and enamel breakdown.


• You’re a tooth grinder – Grinding your teeth can wear down your enamel. This exposes the dentin and causes sensitive teeth.

If you suffer from sensitive teeth, please give us a call. To learn more about Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, call us at 512-451-7491 or visit our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

How to Choose a Safe and Effective Toothpaste

When choosing toothpaste, you want to make sure you are picking one that will suit your specific needs. You also want to make sure the toothpaste you are choosing is safe. At Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, we want to be sure our patients are taking excellent home care of their teeth. Read on to learn how to pick a safe and effective toothpaste.

The first thing to know is that the American Dental Association (ADA) labels toothpastes that they find both safe and effective at doing what it claims it will. You can look for the seal of approval on toothpaste to ensure you are making a healthy choice.

For whitening and tartar control toothpastes, especially, you will want to look for the ADA’s seal of acceptance. Whitening and tartar control toothpastes contain abrasive ingredients that can be harmful in too large of quantities.  

For sensitive teeth, toothpaste with potassium nitrate and strontium chloride are great. These help desensitize the nerves that create that uncomfortable sensitivity.

Kids will probably enjoy the many fun flavors that toothpastes have to offer. It may even get them more interested in brushing!

Along with brushing and flossing at home, it is important to see your dentist for routine cleanings and examinations. To schedule your appointment with Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, call our Austin, TX office at (512) 451-7491. More information about our practice can be found on our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

Surgery for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea can affect more than the quality of your sleep. It can also increase the risk of heart failure, hypertension, and stroke. Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX treat sleep apnea so patients can get back to a healthy night of sleep.

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the soft tissues in the throat collapse during sleep. This narrows or completely closes the airway, so the patient has difficulty breathing. A patient may stop breathing a few times or hundreds of times per night.

Here at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, we treat our patients with obstructive sleep apnea through surgery. There are several options available, depending on the condition of the patient and history with past treatments. The first option is called an uvulopalatopharyngoplasty. In this procedure, the doctor removes some of the soft tissue that is blocking the airway. Another option is maxillomandibular advancement which moves the upper and lower parts of the jaw forward to create more room in the airway. When most other treatments and surgeries for obstructive sleep apnea do not work, a tracheostomy may be needed. This procedure creates an opening in the throat where a tube is placed for breathing during the night. During the day, the tube is removed and the opening is covered.

If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, act now to receive treatment. To schedule an appointment with Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, call our office at (512) 451-7491. For more information about our practice and how we treat sleep apnea, visit our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

When is Crown Lengthening Required?

Sometimes, not enough of the tooth sticks out above the gum to support a filling or a dental crown. When this happens, crown lengthening is often required in preparing your tooth for the crown. Dental crown lengthening is a type of oral surgery that is necessary if you have a broken or decayed tooth at the gum line. However, there is no need to go to an oral surgeon because  Dr. Fredrick Shaw, DDS provides this service at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group.

Crown lengthening procedures are done for restorative dentistry and/or to improve the esthetics of your smile. To place a filling or a crown, Dr. Fredrick Shaw, DDS needs to expose more of the tooth and crown lengthening will be necessary. Sometimes patients have what is considered a “gummy smile” when the teeth appear short and crown lengthening can be done to several teeth or your entire gum line to improve it, depending on your specific needs.

To learn about how the crown lengthening procedure is done, give us a call. To learn more about Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, call us at 512-451-7491 or visit our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

Veneers to Restore Your Smile

At Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, Dr. Fredrick Shaw, DDS offers veneers as an excellent way to redesign and reshape your entire mouth. Veneers are usually placed as an option for correcting stained, chipped decayed or crooked teeth. They are ultra-thin shells of ceramic (porcelain) or a composite resin material, which are bonded to the front of the teeth.

Veneers offer a conservative approach to changing a tooth’s color and shape and they generally don’t require the extensive shaping prior to the procedure that crowns do, yet offer a stronger most aesthetic alternative. In terms of the process to place veneers, it is a procedure that takes approximately two to three visits. The first step involves your active participation and you explaining to Dr. Fredick Shaw, DDS the goal you are trying to achieve. During this appointment, he will examine your teeth to make sure that veneers are appropriate for you and discuss what the procedure will involve.

If you wish to enhance the appearance of your smile or if you have questions about veneers, give us a call. To learn more about Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, call us at 512-451-7491 or visit our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?

No matter how much you diligently brush or floss your teeth at home, harmful bacteria grow in your mouth that can only be removed by a dental professional. These bacteria can cause gum disease and significantly affect your overall health. Here at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, Dr. Fredrick Shaw will use professional tools to remove plaque, tartar and bacteria build-up that you are unable to efficiently remove yourself.

According to the Academy of General Dentistry, it is recommended that a dentist or hygienist perform a dental cleaning every six months. The professional dental cleaning reinforces the home-care oral health regimen of brushing and flossing and gives the dentist an opportunity to locate areas in the mouth that may need special attention. During a teeth cleaning, our hygienists will thoroughly clean the area above and below the gum line with scaling tools to rid them of plaque and tartar. Once the surfaces are smooth, polishing is done using a slow speed handpiece with a soft rubber cup that spins on the end. Last but not least, the dentist flosses every crevice between your teeth. He or she may apply fluoride if needed.

If you need your teeth cleaned don’t wait any longer, call us today so we can help you maintain a healthy smile! To learn more about Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, call us at 512-451-7491 or visit our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

Two Types of Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. There are two main types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea, the more common form that occurs when throat muscles relax, and central sleep apnea, which occurs when your brain doesn’t send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Here at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, Dr. Fredrick Shaw utilizes oral surgery to help assist with sleep apnea.

When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the muscles relax, your airway narrows or closes as you breathe in, and you can’t get an adequate breath in. Your brain senses this inability to breathe and briefly rouses you from sleep so you can reopen your airway. You may make a snorting, choking or gasping sound. When central sleep apnea occurs, you may awaken with shortness of breath or have a difficult time getting to sleep or staying asleep. Like with obstructive sleep apnea, snoring and daytime sleepiness can occur.

If you have sleep apnea, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, call us at 512-451-7491 or visit our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

Choosing the Right Toothbrush

Picking the right toothbrush can mean the difference between reaching all areas of your mouth and frequently missing spaces that collect bacteria. At Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, proper dental hygiene education is one of our top priorities.

A major difference between toothbrushes is that some are electric and some are manual. While studies show that electric and manual toothbrushes do about the same job cleaning, electric toothbrushes may be easier for people with hand difficulties. For instance, patients with arthritis may be able to take better care of their mouth with an electric toothbrush since it handles a lot of the work.

Whether you choose electric or manual, a good grip on the handle is important. A small head is also recommended for reaching those hard-to-reach areas in the mouth. You want to make sure you can reach your back molars. When choosing the bristles, softer bristles are best for removing plaque. Bristles that are too stiff can irritate gums and actually wear down enamel. This can actually make you prone to cavities and lead to sensitivity.

Toothbrushes should help you take care of your mouth, not cause damage or promote disease. To learn more about Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, call us at (512) 451-7491 or visit our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

Dental Bonding

Chips, cracks, discoloration, and misalignments can cause a smile to look less than picture-perfect. Fortunately, at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, we can provide patients with dental bonding, a durable, affordable, and good-looking dental restoration.

Chips and cracks weaken teeth and can lead to further damage. In addition, they can really affect the look of your smile, the first thing most people notice about you. Thankfully, there is a solution here in our Austin, TX practice. Dental bonding is the process of using a tooth-colored composite resin to repair the tooth. It can fix chips, cracks, gaps, misalignments, and even discoloration. It is the same material used to fill a cavity.  Your dentist will lightly etch the surface of the tooth to create a strong bond, and the resin is shaped over the chip or gap. For whitening, the resin is painted over the whole tooth. The bonding is then allowed to harden. To give it the shine of a natural tooth, we finish off the bonding process with a good polishing.  

If you have recently chipped a tooth or worry that a filling will diminish the look of your smile, do not fear. Dental bonding can provide a strong and natural-looking restoration. To schedule your appointment with Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, call us at (512) 451-7491. More information about our practice can be found on our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

Oral Conscious Sedation: Sit Back and Relax

Though Dr. Fredrick Shaw will decide which medications are appropriate for your dental treatment, being familiar with the type of sedation we offer at the practice might make you a little more comfortable during your next visit. Whether you suffer from dental anxiety or desire a little more relaxation in the dental chair, our staff at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group is here to make you feel as comfortable and calm as possible through oral conscious sedation.

Depending on the total dose given, oral sedation can range from minimal to moderate. For minimal sedation, you take a pill, and it’s usually taken about an hour before the procedure. This pill will make you drowsy, but you’ll still be awake and able to respond to Dr. Shaw’s questions and commands. Recovery may take a little longer with this type of sedation, and you’ll need an escort to drive you home for your safety.

If you suffer from dental fear, please inform us when scheduling your next appointment. To learn more about dentures as well as services we provide, visit www.fredrickshawdds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Fredrick Shaw in Austin, TX, call 512-451-7491.

Denture Details

For people who have lost their teeth due to gum disease, tooth decay, or injury, dentures can restore their smile and help them with everyday tasks such as eating and speaking. There are two main types of dentures: full and partial. At Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, Dr. Fredrick Shaw will help you choose the type of denture that’s best for you based on how many teeth are going to be replaced.

Complete (full) dentures are used if you’re missing teeth in your upper (maxillary) or lower (mandibular) jaws. Partial dentures are used on patients who only have some teeth missing on either jaw. Complete dentures replace all of the teeth, while partial dentures fill in the spaces created by missing teeth and prevent other teeth from shifting position. Your dentures may feel awkward for a few weeks until you become accustomed to them, however, you will decrease your risk of periodontal disease as well as ease the stress of your jaw while wearing them.

If you have missing teeth, give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about dentures as well as services we provide, visit www.fredrickshawdds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Fredrick Shaw in Austin, TX, call 512-451-7491.

Consequences of Missing Teeth

There are many reasons an individual might be missing teeth. The most common is tooth decay; however, in some cases, tooth loss is caused by injuries to either the tooth itself or to the surrounding tissues, including the gums and jaws. Like other common dental problems, missing teeth can cause serious complications over time if left untreated. Fortunately, at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, Dr. Fredrick Shaw has a wide variety of restorative and cosmetic treatment options for patients to choose from.

There are several negative consequences of missing some or all of your teeth. Not only will your smile be affected by the gaps from the missing teeth, but the aesthetics of your face will change. If you’re missing too many teeth, the skin around your mouth won’t be supported properly and will start to sag, making you appear older than you are. Additionally, missing teeth will make eating and speaking more difficult. The way you look affects the way you feel, and the psychological consequences of tooth loss can be intense. If you desire to repair your toothless grin, allow us to create you a more beautiful smile.

If you have missing teeth, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about services we provide, visit www.fredrickshawdds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Fredrick Shaw in Austin, TX, call 512-451-7491.

What is a General Dentist?

General dentists are the primary dental care providers for patients of all ages. They can treat you and your entire family and care for your overall health. Dentistry is defined as the evaluation, diagnosis, prevention and/or treatment (nonsurgical or related procedures) of diseases, disorders and/or conditions of the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and/or the adjacent and associated structures and their impact on the human body. When looking for exceptional and quality general dentistry services, look no further than the practice of Dr. Fredrick Shaw in Austin, TX.   

Instead of specializing in just one area of dentistry, general dentists, such as Dr. Fredrick Shaw provide plenty of different services for you and your family, such as: cosmetic procedures, crowns and bridges, dental implants, dentures, gum disease treatment, home care instruction, root canal therapy, teeth cleanings and many more. In addition to these general services, we also provide prosthodontics and full mouth reconstruction to patients who desire a brand new smile.

If you are searching for a general dentist, look no further and give us a call. To learn more about dental health as well as services we provide, visit www.fredrickshawdds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Fredrick Shaw in Austin, TX, call 512-451-7491.

Battling Bad Breath

Bad breath is often embarrassing. It can ruin a moment or cause major frustration if it is a common occurrence. Here at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, we want to help optimize our patients’ dental hygiene. Keeping reading for some tips on battling bad breath!

While stinky foods like garlic and onions may be common causes of bad breath, bad breath is often caused by bacteria. Therefore, in order to clear up the bad breath and keep it away, the bacteria must be eliminated and avoided.

Plaque is the thin film that forms on our teeth throughout the day. In case you didn’t know, it is made up of bacteria. Make sure you are brushing your teeth two or three times per day and flossing once every day to keep the plaque away. In addition, brushing your tongue or investing in a tongue scraper will help get rid of a lot more bacteria!

Hydration is another part of keeping fresh breath. When the mouth dries out, especially overnight, bacteria are able to explode in numbers. This is why we often wake up with that “morning breath”. Make sure to get in your daily recommended amount of water and avoid drinks that dry out the mouth.

Extra bad breath fighters include mint leaves, lemon rinds, and green tea. Reach for these when you’re in a pinch!

If you are struggling with keeping bad breath away, schedule an appointment with us so we can discuss your dental hygiene. To schedule in our Austin, TX office, call Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group at (512) 451-7491. More information can be found on our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges allow us to replace a patient’s tooth without major dental work like surgery. Replacing missing teeth is important for speech, eating, and even jaw structure. At Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX we offer dental bridges as a popular option for tooth replacement.

A bridge works by using the two teeth adjacent to the open space to fit a new tooth in between them. It is called a bridge because it literally acts like a bridge! There are also bridges available for when a tooth is missing on the end of your upper or lower set of teeth where it only has one tooth next to the opening.

To place a bridge, first, we prepare the one or two adjacent teeth so that crowns can fit on them. We then take impressions to send to a dental laboratory that creates the customized bridge. The bridge itself consists of the two crowns with a full replacement tooth in the middle, called a pontic. The patient will wear a temporary bridge for a couple of weeks while the permanent bridge is being created. When the permanent bridge is ready, it is bonded into place. The patient now has a natural-looking and strong replacement for their tooth.

Replacing missing teeth is important for your oral health. To learn more about bridges or to set up an appointment at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, call us at (512) 451-7491 or visit our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

Strong and Natural-Looking Dental Crowns

A large cavity or crack used to mean total tooth replacement. However, since dental crowns have been around, we are able to save patients’ natural teeth. Here at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, we are able to provide our patients with strong and natural-looking dental crowns.

Dental crowns are the ideal restoration option for when there is more damage than a filling can hold, but still an intact root. A crown is like a cap that goes over the tooth so that it can still function in your mouth. We can make completely custom dental crowns so that they look and feel natural in our patients’ mouths. They look just like the real thing, plus, you can use it like it’s the real thing.

A dental crown can be made of metal, porcelain fused to metal, or full porcelain. The options with porcelain are able to replicate the look and feel of your tooth. Your dentist will first reshape your damaged tooth, remove any decay, and then take impressions of the area. A dental laboratory then creates the custom tooth while you wear a temporary one for a few weeks. When ready, the custom crown will be cemented into place. With good care, a crown can last for over fifteen years.

If you have damage or decay to a tooth, come in for an examination. It may be able to be saved with a dental crown before it is too late. To schedule an appointment at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX, call (512) 451-7491. More information about crowns may be found on our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

Full and Partial Dentures for Tooth Replacement

Replacing your teeth ensures a great smile along with great oral health. One of the options we have for our patients here at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group in Austin, TX is dentures. We offer full and partial dentures to suit all of our patients’ needs.

Full dentures are a removable option to replace all of the teeth in your mouth. They are designed just for you so they fit naturally and help you look like yourself. There are two types of full dentures we offer. We offer conventional dentures, which are placed after the gum tissue heals when extractions are necessary. We also provide immediate dentures, which are placed right away after any extractions, but will need to be refitted in the future. They usually need to be refitted because gum tissue tends to shrink as it heals.

While it is common to have the whole mouth of teeth replaced, it is also common for a patient to just need a few teeth replaced. This is why we also offer partial dentures. Our partial dentures work similar to a dental bridge except the restoration is removable.

If you are looking to replace teeth, come on in to learn more about your options. To set up an appointment with Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, call our Austin, TX office at (512) 451-7491. More information can be found about us on our website, www.fredrickshawdds.com. 

Oral Cancer Screening

The goal of oral cancer screening is to identify mouth cancer early when there is a greater chance for a cure. Oral cancer screening is an examination performed by a dentist or doctor to look for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions in your mouth. Here at the dental practice of Dr. Fredrick Shaw, our doctor can talk to you about your health history and examine your oral cavity for signs of mouth and/or throat cancer.

The oral cancer screening is often completed with an ultraviolet light or similar device that allows us to view issues that can’t always be detected by the human eye under normal conditions. Factors that can increase the risk of oral cancer include tobacco use of any kind, heavy alcohol use, previous oral cancer diagnosis and history of significant sun exposure, which increases the risk of lip cancer.  It’s important to understand that even though Dr. Shaw may suggest an oral cancer screening, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have oral cancer.

If you are concerned about oral cancer, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about other services we provide at our practice, visit www.fredrickshawdds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Fredrick Shaw in Austin, TX, call 512-451-7491. 

Safe Sedation with Nitrous Oxide

Dr. Fredrick Shaw safely uses nitrous oxide, sometimes called “laughing gas,” to control patient pain and anxiety during a procedure. It is not intended to put you to sleep and you will be able to hear and respond to any requests or directions Dr. Shaw may have. Your speech may be slightly slurred, and your responses may be slower than usual, but in general, you will be relaxed and cooperative.

For people who avoid dentists like the plague, sedation dentistry can be used for everything from invasive procedures to a simple tooth cleaning. How it’s used depends on the severity of the fear. To administer nitrous oxide Dr. Fredrick Shaw will ask you to breathe normally through your nose, and within a few short minutes, you should start to feel the effects of nitrous oxide. You may feel light-headed or a tingling in your arms and legs. Ultimately, you should feel calm and comfortable.

If you have questions about sedation dentistry or nitrous oxide, please give us a call. To learn about other services we provide at our practice, visit www.fredrickshawdds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Fredrick Shaw in Austin, TX, call 512-451-7491. 

Dentures and Partial Dentures

Guide to Dentures and Partial Dentures

If you're missing some or all of your teeth - either due to gum disease or trauma - you may be considering dentures. Dentures and partial dentures help fill in the spaces where your teeth are missing. They allow you to eat, speak and smile with confidence. Dr. Fredrick Shaw is an Austin dentist who can determine if dentures or partial dentures are right for you.

What to Expect

It will take a few weeks and several appointments with your dentist to create dentures or partial dentures designed to fit your mouth. Your insurance company will likely pay for a large portion of your dentures. Dentures can be taken out and put back in your mouth as you please. Many people take them out at night - just be sure to place them in room temperature water or a denture cleaning solution. Dentures are not real teeth, and as such, are delicate. They should be gently brushed after eating, just like real teeth. However, avoid putting them under hot water, as this could ruin them.

Dentures may take some time to get used to. They often feel loose or bulky, and can make it difficult to eat or speak. Practice makes perfect. After a few weeks or so, your mouth will be trained to adjust to the dentures. They may never feel as comfortable as real teeth, but they are better than having no teeth at all.

Take the Next Step Toward a Better Smile

Dr. Fredrick Shaw can help improve your smile and self-confidence with dentures or partial dentures. Contact his Austin office for a consultation today at (512) 451-7491.

www.fredrickshawdds.com

When Does an Extraction Become Necessary?

Although permanent teeth were meant to last a lifetime, having a tooth pulled is sometimes necessary. At the dental practice of Dr. Fredrick Shaw right here in Austin, TX, our doctor would like you to know that before he considers extraction, every effort will be made to try to repair and restore your tooth.  You’re probably most familiar with wisdom teeth extractions, but other reasons for the procedure may include:

• Severe tooth damage/trauma – some teeth have such extensive decay and damage (broken or cracked) that repair is not possible.


• Orthodontic treatment – people getting braces may need teeth extracted to create room for teeth that are being moved into place.


• Some teeth may need to be extracted if they have the potential of becoming infected.


• Extra teeth – extra teeth may block other teeth from erupting, therefore, will require extraction.

If you have a tooth that is causing you pain, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about other services we provide at our practice, visit www.fredrickshawdds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Fredrick Shaw in Austin, TX, call 512-451-7491. 

Dental Implants Defined

A dental implant is a prosthetic replacement for a missing tooth. There are three common parts to an implant – the implant device itself (which is inserted directly into the bone); the abutment – the piece that connects the implant device to the third part – the overlying crown or denture. When strategically placed, implants can now be used to support permanently cemented bridges, eliminating the need for a denture. If you have missing teeth, wear dentures that are uncomfortable or don’t want to have good tooth structure removed to make a dental bridge, talk with Dr. Fredrick Shaw at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group to see if you are a dental implant candidate.

Dental implants are designed to blend in with your natural teeth. Additionally, they are an excellent long-term option for restoring your smile. Dental implants are made of titanium and other materials that are compatible with the human body. However, you must be in good health and have the proper bone structure and healthy gums for the implant to stay in place. The success rate for implants depends on the tooth's purpose and location in the mouth, as well as a patient's overall health.

If you wish to replace your missing teeth, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about other services we provide at our practice, visit www.fredrickshawdds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Fredrick Shaw in Austin, TX, call 512-451-7491. 

Three Stages of Gum Disease

If you want to keep your permanent teeth for a lifetime, then you need to practice a proper oral hygiene routine on a daily basis. If you don’t, you’re already headed down the road toward gum disease. Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth and there are three stages that you need to be aware of. You should always schedule professional cleanings and oral exams with Dr. Fredrick Shaw at Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group twice a year to avoid this condition.

• Gingivitis – This is the earliest stage of gum disease, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gum line. If daily brushing and flossing do not remove the plaque, it produces toxins that can irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. This is when you’ll notice blood in the sink after you complete your brushing routine. However, at this early stage, damage can be reversed, since the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place are not yet affected.


• Periodontitis – This is the second stage of gum disease. By this point, the supporting bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place are irreversibly damaged. Your gums may even begin to form a pocket below the gum line, which traps food and plaque.


• Advanced Periodontitis – This is the final stage of gum disease, and the fibers and bone supporting your teeth are officially destroyed. In this case, your teeth may begin to shift or loosen and your bite may also be affected. If aggressive treatment can’t save them, the teeth will need to be extracted.

If you experience gum inflammation, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about other services we provide at our practice, visit www.fredrickshawdds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Fredrick Shaw in Austin, TX, call 512-451-7491. 

The Proper Flossing Technique

At Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, if you aren’t using dental floss daily, we understand that it can be challenging to turn this into a habit. However, once you begin a proper flossing regimen, healthy teeth, a white smile, and fresh breath is only a few benefits you will reap. Those who floss daily tend to experience fewer cavities and less tartar and plaque buildup that can lead to tooth decay. Here are some tips to utilize in between professional cleanings.

• Break off about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. This finger will take up the floss as it becomes dirty.

• Hold the floss tightly between your thumb and forefingers.

• Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never snap the floss into the gums.

• When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a “C” shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and tooth.

• Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up and down motions. Repeat this method in the rest of your teeth. Don’t forget the back side of your last tooth.

If you have questions about how to maintain a proper oral hygiene routine, give us a call. To learn more about dental health as well as services we provide, visit www.fredrickshawdds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Fredrick Shaw in Austin, TX, call 512-451-7491.